While summer is the beach season, it’s also known for car breakdowns. Vehicles have cooling systems, but unfortunately, the heat still affects critical components like tires, oil, radiator, battery, air conditioner, and in turn, general performance. While a short drive around town may not worry you, the road trip you are anticipating should. Hence, the need to keep your car in top shape.
We took the time to compile a checklist of maintenance to boost your car’s performance throughout the summer. To ensure safety, complete these items to avoid a breakdown during the season.
1. Check your tyres
Your tyres are one of the essential parts of your vehicle. While any season requires you to keep your tyres in good shape, the summer incorporates additional measures. The high temperatures cause expansion, and in some cases, this could lead to a blowout. Examine your tyres to ascertain their working condition. Are they old, thin, or cracked? Your risk your safety every time you are on the road with such tyres. If necessary, book a tire rotation or replacement.
2. Check the spare tyre
Ideally, the four tyres would work perfectly year in and out. Unfortunately, accidents tend to happen anywhere and at any time. Therefore, it’s best to ensure your spare is in good shape to come in handy during such moments. While at it, ensure you check the manufacturing date. Your car manual contains your manufacturer’s recommendations, but generally, spare tyres last for approximately eight years.
3. Have an emergency kit with you?
We try to make our cars as comfortable as possible. But other than the spare tyre, we need more items to ensure our safety if required. Having a torch, extra batteries, and a high-vis vest will be very helpful when you find yourself in dark or dimly lit areas. For basic maintenance, jumper leads and a tool kit are handy. Additionally, a bottle of water, blanket, and a first aid kit is a must-have to be on top of your safety and comfort all the time.
4. Examine the fluid levels
The hottest time of the year generally strains your automobile. That being said, it’s essential to check your fluid levels for a top-up if necessary. Ensure you are up-to-date with your oil change, at the same time, inspecting the filter. Then go ahead to check the wiper fluid, coolant, and other fluids. Are they in line with the recommended level in your operating manual? If you need help or aren’t sure if you can handle everything by yourself, book an appointment at St George auto body repair shop, they will be more than happy to help.
5. Schedule a professional detailing appointment
After checking out the various components of your car, the final step is making plans for a detailing service. Professional detailing extends beyond wiping down the interior and exterior parts of your vehicle. Auto detailing is a comprehensive and multi-step process involving everything from pressure rinsing, vacuuming, shampooing, dusting, deodorising, and glossing.
Conclusion
Try to keep your car in top shape with the checklist above and professional detailing for its longevity and peak performance. Some auto repair shops even offer mobile auto detailing services to save you the effort.